Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

Does not pass after a reasonable period of time and causes constant pain

Is too large to pass on its own

Blocks the flow of urine

Causes ongoing urinary tract infection

Damages kidney tissue or causes constant bleeding

During this procedure, the doctor uses a special machine to direct shock waves at the stone. The waves pass through the soft tissues of the body. They shatter the hard stone on contact and pulverize it into smaller particles that can be passed in the urine more easily. A sedative or anesthesia is used to prevent pain during the procedure. ESWL takes anywhere from 45-60 minutes to complete. You will probably resume normal activities in 1-2 days. You may need to have several of these procedures before your stone is small enough to pass.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Kidney stones in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/urologic-disease/kidney-stones-in-adults/Pages/facts.aspx. Updated January 28, 2013. Accessed April 16, 2013.